An applier (1) for an anastomosis ring device (9) having proximal (10), center (11), and distal rings (12) connected by proximal (13) and distal hinged arms (14) which have a generally oblong radially retracted shape when the ring device (9) is un-actuated and a folded radially protruding shape when actuated, wherein the applier (1) comprises an elongate implement portion (2) and a handle (21) connected to the implement portion (2), a distal actuating member (28) comprising catch means (30) which, in a lock position, protrudes radially outward to engage the distal ring (12), a proximal actuating member (32) adapted to engage the proximal ring (10), an actuation mechanism (23, 24) arranged at the handle (21) and configured to cause the proximal and distal actuating members (28, 32) to move towards each other along a longitudinal axis (X) of the implement portion (2) to approximate the proximal and distal rings (10, 12) causing actuation of the hinged arms (13, 14). The distal actuating member (28) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (X) from the lock position to a release position thereby sliding along a deviating surface (38) at the implement portion (2), which is configured to urge the catch means (30) radially inward to disengage it from the distal ring (12).